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The U.S. State Department has granted initial approval for a missile sale to Saudi Arabia worth $3.5 billion, just days before President Donald Trump’s trip to the Middle East.
The proposed deal includes 1,000 AIM-120C-8 AMRAAMs, 50 guidance sections, missile containers, spare parts, and logistics support. RTX Corp (formerly Raytheon Technologies) will serve as the main contractor.
Takeaway: The deal strengthens Saudi air defenses but still needs Congressional clearance.
Strategic Timing Ahead of Trump’s Middle East Tour
The announcement on May 2 comes just ahead of President Trump’s May 13–16 visit to Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE.
The missile sale to Saudi Arabia is expected to be a major highlight of a broader $100 billion arms package that could be announced during the visit. Saudi officials have also pledged to invest $600 billion in the U.S. over the next four years—further deepening economic ties.
Takeaway: The timing of the deal reinforces U.S.-Saudi ties during a high-profile diplomatic moment.
Congress to Weigh In Amid Rights Concerns
Although the State Department has signed off, the missile sale to Saudi Arabia must now pass through Congress, where it may face opposition.
Lawmakers have previously blocked or challenged arms sales to Riyadh due to its human rights record, especially the 2018 murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi and the civilian toll in Yemen’s conflict.
Takeaway: Political pressure in Washington could delay or derail the final approval.
Defense Strategy and Diplomatic Leverage
Saudi Arabia operates the world’s second-largest fleet of F-15s after the U.S., making these missiles key to its regional air power. The Pentagon says the sale advances U.S. national security by supporting a Gulf ally crucial to regional stability.
Reports also suggest that Saudi Arabia may consider joining the Abraham Accords, although its officials maintain that Palestinian statehood must come first.
Takeaway: Beyond weapons, this deal plays into long-term U.S. strategy in the Gulf.
What the Sale Includes and Who Benefits
This missile sale to Saudi Arabia features the AIM-120C-8 AMRAAM, a top-tier medium-range air-to-air missile used by U.S. and allied forces. RTX Corp, based in Tucson, Arizona, will manufacture the missiles and provide technical support.
The Defense Security Cooperation Agency says the sale supports both U.S. foreign policy goals and economic interests by bolstering the defense of a strategic partner.
Takeaway: The deal benefits both U.S. defense contractors and Washington’s broader Gulf policy.
In Summary:
The U.S. has approved a $3.5 billion missile sale to Saudi Arabia, reinforcing military and diplomatic ties ahead of Trump’s visit. While the deal aligns with U.S. strategic interests, it still awaits Congressional approval—where political and human rights concerns could shape the final outcome.
